NBA Finals predictions: 3 NBA Finals picks to make right now

The NBA playoffs are set to begin on April 20, which can only mean one thing: It’s time to make NBA Finals predictions.

As players and teams begin the race to become the first team to 16 playoff wins, here are three NBA Finals picks and best bets we’re targeting:

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NBA Finals picks: Boston Celtics to win the Eastern Conference (-170 or better)

Sometimes the best option is the one that’s right in front of you.

Are -170 odds the most lucrative in the world? No, they are not. But considering the likelihood the Celtics win the Eastern Conference, it’s worth the investment.

Boston has been leaps and bounds better than every team in the league during the regular season and nearly doubled up the team with the second-best net rating. They have held more 30-point leads than 10-point deficits, have a deep, versatile and talented roster, and are elite offensively and defensively.

Boston’s path is also significantly easier than the one for the Western Conference champion. Let’s run down the reasons why:

• Bucks: Giannis’ injury and losing record under Doc Rivers.
• Knicks: Julius Randle’s injury and lack of secondary scoring.
• Cavaliers: Slumping at the wrong time.
• Magic: 22nd in offensive efficiency, little playoff experience.
• Pacers: No interior presence, also lack experience.
• 76ers: Potentially the most dangerous team, but have to overcome Embiid’s injury history and typical postseason regression.
• Heat: No offense to speak of, losing record against playoff teams.

NBA Finals picks: Dallas Mavericks to win the Western Conference (+1100 or better)

The Mavericks won 16 of 18 games at the time of writing. Not only are Luka Doncic and Kyrie Irving playing outstandingly, but they posted the best defensive rating in the league during their recent hot streak and will be even better when rookie center Dereck Lively II returns from injury.

The Mavs’ moves at the trade deadline gave them a roster that perfectly complements the talents of their two lead guards. They’re also the hottest team in the league and head into the postseason with tons of momentum.

Doncic averaged 32.5 points, 9.3 rebounds and 7.9 assists in his playoff career, while Irving is regarded as one of the best closers in the game. Their ability to score at an unmatched clip combined with their newfound defensive identity makes them a nightmare for every team.

NBA Finals picks: Western Conference team to win the NBA Finals (-120 or better)

While the Celtics are a deserving and overwhelming favorite in the East, it’s unclear which team will come out of the West.

The Denver Nuggets are the favorites, but there are numerous teams that have realistic chances to reach the Finals if they get the right bracket.

As great as the C’s are, there are serious concerns about their end-of-game play.

Despite playing at the eighth-fastest pace in the first quarter, they slow down to the slowest tempo in the fourth quarter. Jayson Tatum has a poor track record at making big shots in the clutch so far, and the team often ends up with undesirable shots at the end of games.

Until they find a way to patch up their Achilles heel, there’s reason to believe they will once again fold in a big moment.

Underdog Fantasy NBA props: Higher/Lower props for basketball

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